Today we’d like to introduce you to Michaela Brewer.
Hi Michaela, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my journey with a deep love for the water, chasing waves and building community through surfing and traveling. At the same time, I found a passion for helping people navigate big life changes—especially buying or selling their homes—in Charleston, SC, where I’ve built my real estate business from the ground up.
As a REALTOR® and the wife of a firefighter, life has always required a certain level of grit, flexibility, and purpose. Now, with our first baby on the way, I’m even more focused on creating a life that supports freedom, balance, and impact—not just for my family, but for others who want the same.
Joining eXp Realty gave me the structure and support to scale a business on my terms. The training, mentorship, and financial model gave me the tools to grow a sustainable real estate career while still traveling, running surf trips, and showing up for my family.
Today, I’m committed to helping other agents do the same—build a business that supports your life, not the other way around. Whether you’re a fellow dreamer, surfer, public servant, or someone just looking for more from your real estate career, my goal is to show others that it’s possible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Breaking into real estate was nothing like I expected. You spend all this time learning contracts, laws, and how to legally handle transactions—but no one really teaches you how to build a business.
I remember passing my licensing exam and immediately thinking, “Now what?!” I had no roadmap, no clear next step, and no real guidance. I interviewed with a few traditional brokerages, but something was always missing:
No true mentorship
No structured support for new agents
No focus on long-term freedom or financial growth
It felt like I was being handed a toolbox but no blueprint. I didn’t just want to sell houses—I wanted to build a business that supported the life I envisioned: one with time for family, flexibility to travel, and the ability to make a meaningful impact.
That’s when I found eXp. It was the first time I saw a model that truly supported agents—from day one and beyond.
A real mentorship program that walks you through each step
A massive training library and live support from successful agents
Revenue share and stock opportunities that create real potential for financial freedom
eXp gave me direction when I had none. It helped me go from overwhelmed and unsure to building a business that now supports my growing family, fuels my surf travel company, and allows me to help other agents do the same.
As you know, we’re big fans of Michaela Brewer Real Estate powered by eXp Realty LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Today, I’m proud to run a business that blends two passions: helping buyers and sellers navigate real estate in Charleston, SC, and supporting agents who are ready to take their careers to the next level while simultaneously growing my family as a soon to be mom.
As an active agent, I specialize in working with first-time homebuyers, young families, relocating professionals, and those in public service—people who want not just a house, but a home that supports their lifestyle. Whether I’m helping a couple find their dream home or helping a seller creatively market their property for top dollar, I prioritize offering a hands-on support, creative problem-solving, and a calm, down-to-earth approach.
At the same time, I support other agents—especially those who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or simply want more from their business. I work with them to simplify the chaos, build sustainable momentum, and create a path to long-term growth that fits their life. I believe real estate doesn’t have to be complicated or cutthroat. We can all win—especially when we support each other—and I’m proud to be that resource.
What sets me apart is my authenticity and community focus. I show up as myself—no fluff, just real care and a commitment to doing things the right way. Clients and agents alike know they can trust me for honest guidance, resourceful solutions, and unwavering support. I lead with heart, strategy, and a belief that your business should serve your life—not the other way around.
Why eXp?
I chose eXp Realty because it aligned perfectly with that vision. It’s not just a brokerage—it’s a platform that supports both your business and your lifestyle. eXp with the support of my team, The Elevate Team, gives me the freedom and flexibility to travel, continue hosting surf retreats, and grow my family—all while running a real estate business I love.
It’s also a sustainable model for long-term growth and legacy-building—with multiple income streams through production, stock, and revenue share. Even more importantly, eXp doesn’t try to put you behind their brand—they encourage individuality and support you in building your own name. Whether you’re creating a personal brand from scratch or expanding one like I’ve done with Michaela Brewer Real Estate, eXp gives you the tools, structure, and support to make it your own.
Here’s what makes eXp different:
Favorable split with a cap – keep more of what you earn
Powerful mentorship and onboarding for new agents
50+ hours of live weekly training from top producers
Revenue share program – earn beyond closings
Equity opportunities – build wealth as you build your business
Cloud-based model – work from anywhere, collaborate everywhere
eXp is one of the fastest-growing brokerages in the world for a reason. It empowers agents to live fully, grow freely, and build something meaningful—and that’s exactly what it’s helped me do.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
When I made the decision to grow my real estate business while still running my surf company,Barebones Surf, and now as im preparing for motherhood, it hasn’t been without risk.
I was already managing an international surf travel brand, coordinating trips, building community, and handling logistics across borders. Adding a demanding, client-facing real estate business to the mix—while now also preparing to become a first-time mom—means I have to be incredibly intentional with my time, energy, and resources.
The risks were real:
Burnout from trying to juggle too much without the right systems
Inconsistent income, especially in the early stages of growing my client base
Lack of support or structure, which is common in traditional brokerages
And now of course, the emotional weight of trying to build two businesses while preparing for one of life’s biggest transitions: motherhood
That’s where eXp came in and changed everything.
eXp gave me the tools, systems, and support to run a real estate business on my terms. I wasn’t forced to choose between showing up for my surf community, my growing family, or my clients—I could do it all, sustainably.
Here’s how eXp helped mitigate the risk:
Virtual and flexible model: I can work from anywhere—whether I’m in Charleston, El Salvador, or home with my baby.
Robust training & mentorship: I didn’t have to figure it all out on my own. I had direct access to training, community, and guidance at every step.
Multiple income streams: Between production, revenue share, and stock, I’ve been able to create financial stability—even during seasons when I need to step back.
Supportive culture: I’m surrounded by other agents who value collaboration, family, and freedom. It’s not about hustle for hustle’s sake—it’s about building something that lasts. This was amplified when I joined forces with The Elevate Team.
Most importantly, eXp supports me—my brand, my voice, my goals. I wasn’t asked to give up my identity to fit into someone else’s mold. Instead, they’ve helped me amplify what makes my approach unique.
Because of eXp, I’m building not just a business, but a legacy—one that supports my family, fuels my passions, and helps other agents and clients do the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michaelabrewer.exprealty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaela.brewer_chsrealestate/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelaRoseBrewer/
